Alum root 'Purple Petticoats' Heuchera 'Purple Petticoats'

Water

Coral Bells prefer evenly moist soil, so it's important to water them thoroughly but not excessively. Water them with about 1 inch of water per week, depending on weather conditions. During hot, dry periods, you may need to water twice a week, while in cooler, wetter weather, you might water less frequently. Use a soaker hose or drip irrigation to deliver water directly to the root zone, minimizing wet foliage that can lead to fungal diseases. Always check the soil moisture by feeling about an inch down; if it's dry, it's time to water, but if it's still moist, hold off on watering.

Light

For Coral Bells, the ideal lighting condition is partial shade, especially in the afternoon to protect them from the intense sun. They can tolerate morning sun, which is softer, especially in cooler climates. However, these plants also perform well in full shade, making them versatile for garden spots that receive varying amounts of light throughout the day. To ensure vibrant foliage color and optimal growth, avoid placing them in deep, dense shade or full, harsh sunlight.

Temperature

Coral Bells are hardy plants that can survive in temperatures as low as -25 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 80 degrees Fahrenheit. However, they thrive best in a temperature range of 60 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit. They may go dormant during extreme heat or cold but typically recover as temperatures return to their ideal range.

Pruning

Coral Bells benefit from pruning primarily to remove any damaged or dead foliage and to encourage fresh growth. Prune them in early spring before new growth starts, and then tidy up the plant as needed throughout the growing season. Trimming back the flower stalks after blooms have faded also helps maintain a neat appearance and directs energy back into the leaves.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Coral Bells prefer well-draining, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of one-third peat moss, one-third garden soil, and one-third perlite or coarse sand is ideal. Regularly adding compost will help maintain the soil's richness and structure.

Repotting

Coral Bells should be repotted every 3 to 4 years to refresh the soil and remove any crowded clumps. It's best to do this in the spring before the growing season begins. Dividing the plant during repotting also encourages healthy growth.

Humidity & Misting

Coral Bells thrive in average humidity levels. Although they are adaptable, a relative humidity range between 40% to 50% is ideal for these plants to maintain their foliage's health and vibrancy.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light and ensure pot has drainage.

• Outdoor

  Part shade to full sun with moist, well-draining soil.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

Coral Bells 'Purple Petticoats' begins its life cycle when the seeds are sown or when it is propagated through division. The seed germinates and develops into a seedling, which then grows into a mature plant that forms a clump with large, ruffled, purple leaves. The mature plant produces tall flower spikes with small, bell-shaped flowers, usually in late spring to early summer. After pollination, typically by bees and hummingbirds, the flowers develop into seed capsules which, when mature, release seeds for the next generation. The plant experiences a period of dormancy during the winter months, wherein it may die back to the ground to conserve energy. In spring, new growth resumes from the rootstock, and the perennial cycle starts anew, continuing for several years until the plant may need division to rejuvenate or propagate.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The most popular method of propagation for the Heuchera 'Purple Petticoats', commonly known as Coral Bells, is by division. This is typically done in the spring or early fall to allow the plant time to establish its root system before the stress of the hot summer or cold winter. To propagate by division, carefully lift the entire plant from the ground and gently pry or cut the crowns apart, ensuring that each division has a good amount of roots attached. These divisions can then be replanted in well-draining soil, spaced about a foot (approximately 30 centimeters) apart to allow enough room for growth. It's important to water the new plants thoroughly after planting to help establish them. Coral Bells prefer a location that has morning sun and afternoon shade, which may also be taken into consideration when choosing a planting site for the new divisions.